Google Maps will soon let you share your real-time location — here's how it works

If you're the type of person who texts your friends "I just left,
I'll be there soon" when you're really about to step into the
shower, you're not going to like this news: Google
is updating its popular Maps app with new features
to let friends view each other's location in real-time.

The location-sharing feature only works if you decide to share
your current location with a specific person, and you can
limit how long a friend sees your location. Ideally, this will
provide Google Maps users with a handy way to let their friends
know how close, or far away, they are from a rendez-vous
— and just how late they really will be.

Here's a look at how it works:

The new feature looks simple enough to use, requiring only
that you tap the blue dot that indicates your location and then
select "share my location."

You can share your location with anyone in your Google Contacts
list, regardless of whether they are on iOS, Android or on a
computer. You will also have the option to bypass Google Contacts
and copy a link to send to any recipient.

The
new Google Maps menu screen, as well as an example of what the
app looks like when two people are sharing their
location.Google

You will be able to set a time limit on how long you are sharing
your location, and the app will notify you that your location is
being shared whenever you are in it, so that you don't
inadvertently forget.

And if you're using Google Maps for driving directions, the
update will allow you to share your location and route with
whoever you want, providing them with an up-to-date ETA.

Google said the update is coming "soon," though it did provide an
exact release date.

These features come on the heels of a Maps update that makes sure you
never forget where you parked your car again. Interestingly
enough, Google envisions these updates being most useful when
planning a surprise birthday party. Take a look: